Johnston believes this can open the door for more NHL games in Europe and possibly a 2015 World Cup.

“I hope that this is the first step in a multi-year deal, which will involve World Cups, Victoria Cups and other new events internationally,” Hockey Canada president Bob Nicholson said. “I think that there is a great opportunity for the IIHF, NHL and NHLPA.”

Sidney Crosby ranks among the players who would embrace more opportunities to represent Canada.

“I think it would be great,” Crosby said Friday afternoon. “I think expanding (the international calendar) and playing different teams, representing Canada, the more that you get an opportunity to do that I think it’s great for everyone.”

Stop it already. I like the NHL. I have no interest in international hockey. The best players in the world already play in the NHL, so seeing them play international hockey isn’t that big a deal. If they really want only the best they should get rid of 10 teams. The Olympics is going to suck.